The Federal Government and Bayelsa State have made significant progress in enhancing healthcare access and delivery by commissioning multiple health facilities in Yenagoa.
The newly inaugurated facilities include the Bayelsa State Haemodialysis Centre, general outpatient centre, zip-line drone flight services facility and an 800-metre access road, marking a milestone in the state’s healthcare infrastructure.
Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate praised the initiative during the commissioning ceremony in Yenagoa, asserting that it is a testament to the collaborative efforts of both the federal and state governments to strengthen the health sector.
“These developments are not merely structures; they reflect our shared commitment to providing quality healthcare services to Nigerians, regardless of their location. The integration of technology, such as the zipline drone flight services, signifies a bold step toward innovative healthcare delivery,” stated Pate.
He emphasised that the Federal Government is committed to fostering such partnerships to improve healthcare across the country.
“The Bayelsa model demonstrates how state-level commitment, combined with federal support, can yield tangible results. We are optimistic that this partnership will serve as a blueprint for other states looking to enhance their healthcare systems,” Pate remarked.
The drone service is anticipated to improve the distribution of medical supplies to hard-to-reach areas, ensuring that essential medications and diagnostic tools are accessible to even the most remote communities in Bayelsa.
Governor Douye Diri, in his address, reflected on the evolution of the state’s healthcare infrastructure and honoured the visionaries who laid its foundation, including the late Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha and former President Goodluck Jonathan.
“This hospital initiative began with the foresight of our first civilian governor, Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha, who envisioned a 500-bed hospital to serve our people. Today, we are building upon that legacy,” Diri stated.
He also shared the personal significance of the Haemodialysis Centre, revealing that he lost his mother to renal failure in 2013 due to the lack of dialysis facilities in the state.
“If such a facility had existed then, perhaps she would still be with us today. But beyond my loss, this centre is a lifeline for many Bayelsans and Nigerians who require critical renal care,” he expressed.
Diri highlighted the state’s commitment to medical education, noting the expansion of Bayelsa Medical University and the introduction of new academic programs aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery in the state.
“I do not play politics with development. Whoever supports the growth of our state, we will recognise and appreciate publicly,” he added, acknowledging a significant contribution from former governor and current FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike toward the development of Bayelsa Medical University.
The governor issued a directive for the immediate operationalisation of the facilities, stating, “This hospital must be fully operational within six months.”
As Bayelsa State and the federal government continue their collaboration on healthcare initiatives, stakeholders and residents are optimistic about the future. They believe that the commissioned facilities will not only improve healthcare access in Bayelsa but also serve as a model for other states seeking to strengthen their health infrastructure.
